Does Higher Education Still Increase Employability? Contemporary Views From Full-Time Higher Education Staff

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 1:30 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 4
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating Admissions, Employability, and Financial Support in Higher Education (Table 12)

Abstract

As the value of higher education continues to be questioned by students, communities, and policymakers, it is critical to understand the role higher education plays in the employability of its graduates. Despite this questioning, empirical research confirmed that earning a postsecondary credential is the surest path to socioeconomic mobility and enhanced employability. This study engaged with 30 full-time higher education staff to explore their views toward higher education’s role in employability. Findings suggest staff believe higher education still increases student employability, but that changing economies and perceptions of higher education have led employers to value experience and skills over education, with degree inflation acting as a “moveable bar” for upward employability movement.

Authors

• Elizabeth A. Rainey, Loyola University New Orleans

• Debra Carter, University of Kansas

• Zach Taylor, University of Southern Mississippi

• Patrick Ziegler, Earnest Financial

• Allison Maldonado, Stanford University

• Dana George, University of Alabama

• Karla A. Weber Wandel, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Christopher Burnett, Colorado College